Moscow

The capital of Russia, a colossus of history, power and culture, iconic for the Kremlin, Red Square and its spectacular metro.

RussiaDistrito Federal Central
5 days

About Moscow

About Moscow - Culture, History & Character

City Description

Moscow, the imposing and vast capital of Russia, is a metropolis of dazzling power, history and art. Political and spiritual heart of the country for centuries, its epicenter is the Kremlin and Red Square, a world-famous monumental complex. From its golden domes and opulent metro stations to its world-class theaters and frenetic modern energy, Moscow is a city of superlatives, where imperial grandeur and Soviet ambition meet 21st-century dynamism.
Country
Russia
Region
Distrito Federal Central
Highlights
13+ Attractions

Population

Approximately 13.1 million (city), more than 21.5 million (metropolitan area).

Languages

Ruso

El ruso es el idioma oficial. El inglés no está muy extendido fuera de los hoteles de alta gama y las zonas más turísticas del centro. Aprender el alfabeto cirílico es extremadamente útil para moverse por la ciudad, especialmente en el metro.

History of Moscow

Explore the fascinating past of Moscow and discover how it has developed over the centuries.

Historical Journey

Ancient Period

Officially founded in 1147 by Prince Yuri Dolgoruki, Moscow began as a small wooden fortress. Thanks to its strategic location, it quickly grew to become the center of power of the Grand Duchy of Moscow, leading the fight against the Mongol yoke.

Development Period

In the 16th century, under Ivan the Terrible, Moscow became the capital of the Russian Tsardom. Despite the capital being moved to Saint Petersburg by Peter the Great in 1712, Moscow remained the symbolic heart of Russia. The city was burned during Napoleon's invasion in 1812 and rebuilt in even greater splendor.

Modern Period

After the Bolshevik Revolution, Moscow regained its capital status in 1918, becoming the center of the Soviet Union. It was the scene of the decisive Battle of Moscow in World War II. Following the dissolution of the USSR, it has undergone a radical transformation, becoming a global megacity, a financial center and a showcase for the power and wealth of the new Russia.

Historical Timeline

The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of Moscow through the centuries.

City Scores

City Scores

Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system

Safety

Good
70100

The center is very safe thanks to a strong police presence. The main risk is scams. (Note: Security for foreigners may be affected by the political climate.)

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The center is very safe thanks to a strong police presence. The main risk is scams. (Note: Security for foreigners may be affected by the political climate.)

Advantages:
  • Street crime such as muggings is rare downtown.
  • The subway is very safe.
Challenges:
  • Common scams (taxis, fake bills).
  • The police may carry out random documentation checks.
  • The current political situation can create an environment of uncertainty and vigilance for Western visitors.

Walkability

Excellent
80100

The historic center is very walkable, and the parks are ideal for strolling. However, the scale of the city makes the use of the metro absolutely essential.

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The historic center is very walkable, and the parks are ideal for strolling. However, the scale of the city makes the use of the metro absolutely essential.

Advantages:
  • The area around the Kremlin, Kitay-Gorod and the Arbat is perfectly explored on foot.
  • Large parks offer miles of trails.
Challenges:
  • Huge distances between different neighborhoods.
  • Large multi-lane avenues can be difficult to cross.

Public Transport

Excellent
100100

The Moscow Metro is a work of art, an underground museum and the most efficient transportation system imaginable. It is the best way to get around the city.

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The Moscow Metro is a work of art, an underground museum and the most efficient transportation system imaginable. It is the best way to get around the city.

Advantages:
  • The metro is fast, frequent, cheap and goes everywhere.
  • Each station is a unique work of art (especially those on the Circle Line).
  • An extensive and efficient network of buses, trams and trolleybuses.
Challenges:
  • It can be incredibly crowded at rush hour.
  • Signage in English has improved, but it is not universal.

Affordability

Good
60100

Moscow is an expensive city. The metro is a bargain, but almost everything else, from eating to sleeping, has European capital prices.

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Moscow is an expensive city. The metro is a bargain, but almost everything else, from eating to sleeping, has European capital prices.

Advantages:
  • Public transportation is incredibly cheap and efficient.
  • The 'business lunch' ('бизнес-ланч') offers excellent value for money at midday.
  • There are Soviet style canteens ('stolovaya') that are very cheap.
Challenges:
  • Accommodation is very expensive.
  • Entrance fees to the main museums and the Kremlin are expensive.
  • Eating in mid- and high-end restaurants is expensive.

Nightlife

Excellent
95100

A world-class nightlife, legendary for its intensity, exclusivity and sophistication.

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A world-class nightlife, legendary for its intensity, exclusivity and sophistication.

Advantages:
  • Rooftop bars with spectacular views of the Kremlin.
  • Internationally famous techno and electronic music clubs.
  • Incredibly creative and high-end cocktail bars.
  • Many places are open until very late or 24/7.
Challenges:
  • Extremely expensive.
  • Face control in clubs is very strict and arbitrary.

Art & Culture

Excellent
100100

One of the great cultural centers of the world, home of the Bolshoi ballet, world-class art galleries and an endless offering of theater and music.

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One of the great cultural centers of the world, home of the Bolshoi ballet, world-class art galleries and an endless offering of theater and music.

Advantages:
  • The Bolshoi Theater is a mecca for ballet and opera.
  • The Tretyakov Gallery houses the largest collection of Russian art in the world.
  • The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts has an impressive collection of European art.
  • More than 150 theaters and concert halls.
Challenges:
  • It is impossible to cover the entire offer in a single trip.

Food Scene

Excellent
90100

A vibrant and sophisticated culinary scene. From traditional Russian cuisine reinvented to excellent restaurants from the former Soviet republics (especially Georgian).

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A vibrant and sophisticated culinary scene. From traditional Russian cuisine reinvented to excellent restaurants from the former Soviet republics (especially Georgian).

Advantages:
  • Georgian cuisine in Moscow is some of the best in the world outside of Georgia.
  • 'Haute Russian cuisine' restaurants that reinterpret traditional dishes.
  • Great variety of high-level international cuisines.
  • Trendy gastronomic markets like Danilovsky.
Challenges:
  • It can be very expensive.
  • Authentic Russian food at a good price can be difficult to find downtown.

Shopping

Excellent
90100

A paradise for luxury shopping, although many international brands have left the country. The historic department stores are an attraction in themselves.

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A paradise for luxury shopping, although many international brands have left the country. The historic department stores are an attraction in themselves.

Advantages:
  • The GUM, a luxury shopping center in a historic building on Red Square.
  • TSUM, another high-end department store.
  • Arbat Street for souvenirs and crafts.
  • The Izmailovo Market to look for Soviet antiques.
Challenges:
  • Very expensive.
  • The availability of Western brands has been drastically reduced by sanctions.

Weather

Fair
50100

The weather is an extreme factor. Winters are long, dark and very cold, limiting outdoor activities.

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The weather is an extreme factor. Winters are long, dark and very cold, limiting outdoor activities.

Advantages:
  • The image of the city covered in snow is magical.
  • Summers are pleasant and with many hours of light.
Challenges:
  • Extremely long and severe winter.
  • Few hours of light in winter.
  • The spring thaw ('rasputitsa') is dirty.

Tourist Friendly

Good
60100

A challenging destination for the independent tourist. The language barrier, the Cyrillic alphabet and the need for a visa are major obstacles. (Note: Currently, tourism from Western countries is extremely limited and complicated.)

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A challenging destination for the independent tourist. The language barrier, the Cyrillic alphabet and the need for a visa are major obstacles. (Note: Currently, tourism from Western countries is extremely limited and complicated.)

Advantages:
  • The historic center is well prepared for tourism (although focused on national tourism and friendly countries).
  • The beauty of the city is undeniable.
Challenges:
  • Visa is required for most nationalities.
  • The language and alphabet barrier.
  • Foreign credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) do not work.
  • Air connections with the West are almost non-existent.

Family Friendly

Excellent
80100

It offers unique family-friendly attractions, such as the circus or planetarium, although the weather and scale of the city can be a challenge.

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It offers unique family-friendly attractions, such as the circus or planetarium, although the weather and scale of the city can be a challenge.

Advantages:
  • The Moscow State Circus.
  • The VDNKh is a gigantic park with pavilions, an aquarium and a real rocket.
  • Gorky Park offers activities in all seasons.
  • The Museum of Cosmonautics.
Challenges:
  • Winter is extremely cold for young children.
  • The city is huge and requires a lot of time on the subway.
  • Not all infrastructures are suitable for baby strollers.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Poor
20100

It is not a safe or welcoming destination for the LGTBQ+ community. 'Propaganda' laws and social hostility create a risky environment.

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It is not a safe or welcoming destination for the LGTBQ+ community. 'Propaganda' laws and social hostility create a risky environment.

Advantages:
  • There are some 'underground' venues in the centre.
Challenges:
  • The 'law against homosexual propaganda' prohibits any public demonstration.
  • High risk of harassment and violence.
  • Total lack of social acceptance and legal protection.

Local Friendly

Good
65100

Muscovites can appear distant and serious, an often misunderstood cultural trait. Hospitality exists, but it is not as extroverted as in other cultures.

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Muscovites can appear distant and serious, an often misunderstood cultural trait. Hospitality exists, but it is not as extroverted as in other cultures.

Advantages:
  • Young people, especially in the service sector, can speak English and be helpful.
  • If you get past the initial barrier, people can be very hospitable.
Challenges:
  • The 'Moscow smile': Not smiling at strangers is the cultural norm.
  • The language barrier is immense.
  • Service can be abrupt and direct.

Natural Beauty

Good
70100

It is a megacity where the beauty is overwhelmingly architectural. Its parks and the Moscova River are its main natural assets.

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It is a megacity where the beauty is overwhelmingly architectural. Its parks and the Moscova River are its main natural assets.

Advantages:
  • The huge urban forest parks.
  • The Moscow River winding through the city.
  • Snowy landscapes in winter.
Challenges:
  • Beauty mainly built by man.
  • It is a very dense city and far from spectacular natural landscapes.

Architecture

Excellent
100100

An open-air architecture museum. From the medieval fortresses of the Kremlin and the domes of St. Basil's to the Stalinist and ultra-modern skyscrapers of Moscow-City.

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An open-air architecture museum. From the medieval fortresses of the Kremlin and the domes of St. Basil's to the Stalinist and ultra-modern skyscrapers of Moscow-City.

Advantages:
  • The Kremlin and Red Square complex is unique in the world.
  • Saint Basil's Cathedral is a universal icon.
  • The Stalinist 'Seven Sisters' define the skyline.
  • Metro stations are 'underground palaces'.
Challenges:
  • Some suburbs are dominated by drab Soviet-era apartment blocks.

Historical Significance

Excellent
100100

The epicenter of Russian history for 800 years. From here an empire was forged, a superpower was led, and much of 20th century world history was defined.

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The epicenter of Russian history for 800 years. From here an empire was forged, a superpower was led, and much of 20th century world history was defined.

Advantages:
  • Seat of Russian power (tsars, general secretaries, presidents).
  • Scene of key events such as the Napoleonic invasion and the October Revolution.
  • Capital of the Soviet Union for 70 years.

Green Spaces

Excellent
95100

Moscow is one of the greenest capitals in the world, with huge forest parks that are a source of pride for the city.

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Moscow is one of the greenest capitals in the world, with huge forest parks that are a source of pride for the city.

Advantages:
  • Gorky Park, a modern and vibrant park on the banks of the river.
  • VDNKh, a mix of park, Soviet fairground and leisure space.
  • Gigantic forest parks like Sokolniki or Izmailovsky.
  • The historic gardens and estates of Kolomenskoye and Tsaritsyno.

Cleanliness

Excellent
85100

The city center and metro are surprisingly clean. Cleanliness is a source of civic pride.

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The city center and metro are surprisingly clean. Cleanliness is a source of civic pride.

Advantages:
  • The Moscow metro is famous for its cleanliness.
  • The historic center, parks and main avenues are impeccable.
  • Very visible and efficient cleaning services.
Challenges:
  • The spring thaw can make the streets very dirty and muddy.
  • Cleanliness may decrease in outlying residential areas.

Startup Scene

Good
70100

Before 2022, it was a booming tech hub with great programming talent. Currently, it is very isolated from the global scene.

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Before 2022, it was a booming tech hub with great programming talent. Currently, it is very isolated from the global scene.

Advantages:
  • Strong talent base in computer science and engineering.
Challenges:
  • International isolation and lack of access to foreign venture capital.
  • Brain drain due to political climate.

Digital Nomad Friendly

Fair
40100

It is not a recommended destination for digital nomads in the current climate. The logistical and political challenges are enormous.

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It is not a recommended destination for digital nomads in the current climate. The logistical and political challenges are enormous.

Advantages:
  • Excellent high-speed internet infrastructure.
Challenges:
  • Very strict and bureaucratic visa requirements.
  • International sanctions affect banking and financial services.
  • Russia's 'sovereign Internet' may restrict access. VPN required.
  • High cost of living.

Overall City Score

Comprehensive assessment of this destination

92/ 100

Weather & Climate

Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar Moscow y qué esperar durante todo el año.

Monthly Temperatures

January

Max-4°
Min-9°

February

Max-3°
Min-10°

March

Max3°
Min-5°

April

Max11°
Min2°

May

Max19°
Min8°

June

Max22°
Min12°

July

Max24°
Min14°

August

Max22°
Min12°

September

Max16°
Min7°

October

Max8°
Min2°

November

Max1°
Min-3°

December

Max-3°
Min-7°

Legend

Best Months
Hot Months
Cold Months
Rainy Periods

Weather Summary

The weather is an extreme factor. Winters are long, dark and very cold, limiting outdoor activities.

Weather Tips

The image of the city covered in snow is magical.

Summers are pleasant and with many hours of light.

Extremely long and severe winter.

Few hours of light in winter.

The spring thaw ('rasputitsa') is dirty.

The climate is extreme, with very long, cold winters and short, warm summers.

Snow usually covers the city continuously from the end of November to the end of March.

Overview

Spring

Cold at first, with the thaw ('rasputitsa') creating mud. May is a glorious month.

More Information

Summer

Pleasantly warm and with long hours of light. The best time to enjoy the parks.

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Autumn

Early autumn ('golden season') is beautiful, with spectacular colors, but it cools down quickly.

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Winter

Long, very cold and guaranteed snow. The city looks magical, but requires serious preparation for the cold.

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Presupuesto y Compras

Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas

Budget Planning

Daily spending per person

An expensive city by Russian standards, comparable to the main capitals of Western Europe. Accommodation, food and tickets are expensive.

Budget Travel

50-70€

per day

Mid-Range Travel

100-200€

per day

Luxury Travel

350€+

per day

Guía de Compras

Best Areas

Extreme Luxury

3 areas

GUM

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TSUM

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Stoleshnikov Lane

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International Brands

1 area

Tverskaya Street

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Souvenirs and Antiques

2 areas

Arbat Street

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Izmailovo market

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Shopping Centers

2 areas

Okhotny Ryad (underground)

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Aviapark (one of the largest in Europe)

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Gastronomic Markets

2 areas

Danilovsky Market

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Depo.Moskva Food Mall

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Points of Interest

Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer

UNESCO

The Moscow Kremlin

The historic citadel and the heart of Russian power. A walled complex that houses cathedrals, palaces and the official residence of the President of Russia. Includes the Armory and the Diamond Fund.

Landmark

Red Square

The most famous square in Russia, flanked by the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, the GUM and Lenin's Mausoleum. Stage of Russian history for centuries.

Landmark

St. Basil's Cathedral

The icon of Russia. An architectural fantasy with its colorful bulb-shaped domes, built by order of Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century.

Architecture

Bolshoi Theater

One of the most important and prestigious opera and ballet theaters in the world. Attending a performance in its historic auditorium is an unforgettable experience.

Entertainment

Moscow Metro

Known as the 'underground palace'. Many of its stations, especially those from the Stalinist era, are works of art decorated with marble, mosaics, lamps and statues.

Architecture

State Tretyakov Gallery

The world's leading museum of Russian art. It houses an incomparable collection, from medieval icons by Andrei Rublev to the masterpieces of 19th century realism.

Museum

Gorky Park

The most modern and vibrant park in Moscow. A huge leisure space on the banks of the Moskva River, with cafes, cycle paths, a museum of contemporary art and a gigantic ice rink in winter.

Park

VDNKh (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy)

A monumental park and fairground from the Soviet era. A surreal place with ostentatious pavilions for each republic of the USSR, golden fountains, a Vostok rocket and an oceanarium.

Park

Cathedral of Christ the Savior

The tallest Orthodox church in the world. Dynamited by Stalin, it was rebuilt identically in the 1990s. Its golden dome dominates the skyline.

Architecture
UNESCO

Novodevichy Convent

A beautiful and peaceful 16th century fortress convent, with an adjacent cemetery where some of the most important figures in Russian history and culture are buried, such as Chekhov, Shostakovich and Yeltsin.

Landmark

Arbat Street

One of the oldest and most famous pedestrian streets in Moscow. Today it is full of souvenir shops, cafes and street artists, retaining some of its historical charm.

Landmark

Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

Moscow's leading collection of European art, with works ranging from ancient Egypt to masterpieces of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism.

Museum

Lenin Mausoleum

A red granite structure in Red Square that houses the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin. A solemn and surreal experience of the Soviet era.

History

Discover every corner of Moscow!

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Day Trips

Discover fascinating destinations near Moscow perfect for day getaways

Approx. 1.5 hours by train.

Sergiyev Posad

Religion, history, architecture, culture.

The heart of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is home to the Trinity and St. Sergius Monastery, a spectacular complex of churches and golden domes that is a World Heritage Site. It is part of the 'Golden Ring'.

Approx. 30 minutes by metro from the center.

Kolomenskoye

History, architecture, nature, views.

Former imperial estate located in a park on the banks of the Moscow River (accessible by metro). Famous for the World Heritage Church of the Ascension and its historic buildings.

Approx. 40 minutes by metro from the center.

Tsaritsyno

Palaces, architecture, parks, relaxation.

A spectacular and extensive palace and park commissioned by Catherine the Great (accessible by metro). An example of Russian neo-Gothic, with palaces, bridges and a dancing fountain.

Approx. 2 hours by train to Vladimir, then bus to Suzdal.

Suzdal and Vladimir

Medieval history, architecture, charming towns.

Two of the most important cities of the 'Golden Ring'. A longer trip (requires at least two days) to immerse yourself in Russia's medieval history, with its kremlins, monasteries and white stone architecture.

Explore Neighborhoods

Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.

Kitay-Gorod

The historic heart. The walled neighborhood next to Red Square, full of old churches, trendy bars and a bohemian atmosphere.

Arbat

Tourist and historical. Famous for the pedestrian Arbat Street and quiet alleys reminiscent of 19th century Moscow.

Tverskoy

The nerve center. The main artery of the city, full of luxury shops, theaters and restaurants.

Patriarch's Ponds (Patriki)

Chic and fashionable. The most exclusive neighborhood, with luxury restaurants, designer boutiques and a sophisticated atmosphere.

Zamoskvorechye

Traditional and charming. South of the river, it is a quieter neighborhood with the Tretyakov Gallery and an atmosphere of old Moscow merchants.

Moscow-City

Ultramodern and corporate. The financial district with the tallest skyscrapers in Europe, shopping centers and bars with views.

Seasonal Experiences

Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year

Ice skating in winter

December - March

One of the favorite winter activities of Muscovites. Gorky Park and VDNKh install two of the largest and most spectacular outdoor ice rinks in Europe, with lights, music and cafes.

Maslenitsa (Butter Week)

One week at the end of February or beginning of March

The farewell to winter. A pagan festival of Slavic origin that is celebrated with the burning of an effigy of winter, popular games and, above all, eating 'blinis' (crepes) with all kinds of fillings.

Victory Day Celebrations

May 9

The most important national holiday in Russia. It is celebrated with a gigantic military parade in Red Square and fireworks throughout the city. The city is filled with patriotic fervor.

White Nights (relative)

June

Although not as pronounced as in St. Petersburg, in June the nights in Moscow are very short, with twilight that lasts well into the night. It is the best time to walk and enjoy life on the street.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals

May 9

Victory Day

The most important national holiday, which commemorates the victory in World War II with a massive military parade.

April

Moscow International Film Festival

One of the oldest film festivals in the world.

February/March

Maslenitsa

The folk festival that celebrates the end of winter with 'blinis' and festivities.

September

'Circle of Light' Festival

A spectacular videomapping festival in which artists from all over the world project their works onto Moscow's most emblematic buildings.

Traveler Tips

Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe

Safety Tips

  1. Bring your Passport and Visa

    The police can carry out documentation checks at any time, especially in the subway. Always carry your passport with the visa and the hotel registration paper with you.

  2. Beware of Taxis

    Never take unofficial taxis on the street. Use apps like Yandex.Go, which work like Uber, to have a fixed price and avoid scams.

  3. Political Situation

    Avoid any type of political demonstration. The laws on public gatherings are very strict. Do not photograph military or strategic installations.

Before you go

Quick answers to plan your trip with confidence

About 5 days covers the essentials. Add 1–2 days for neighborhoods or day trips.
Mid-range is around 100-200€ per person per day (stay, food, local transport). See the budget section for ranges.
A solid starting area is Kitay-Gorod. Compare neighborhoods and hotels on this page.
Don't use the subway just to get around. Take time to visit the most famous stations such as Komsomolskaya, Kiyevskaya or Mayakovskaya. They are works of art.
Family-friendliness rated 80/100. It usually works well for family trips.
Safety rated 70/100. The police can carry out documentation checks at any time, especially in the subway. Always carry your passport with the visa and the hotel registration paper with you.

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