Moscow at a glance
As the political and economic center of Russia, the enigmatic capital of Moscow (Mockba) is defined by the Moskova river. It is a city of sharp contrasts, where the beauty of its six Unesco-listed sites sits alongside the crumbling facades of older residential blocks. Locals often call it the "Big Chou," and beneath its stern exterior, it offers a high quality of life. The arts are woven into the city fabric, from the icons in its galleries to the statues on every corner. You will find the Bolchoï theater and 170 ornate metro stations that function more like underground palaces. Take time to experience a traditional banya (steam bath), enjoy a plate of hearty beef Stroganov, and toast with a glass of local vodka. Night owls will find the nightlife here holds its own against any major world city.
The climate is continental, marked by frigid winters, short transition seasons, and warm summers.
Colossal architecture, from the Tsars to the Soviets
Start at the Red Square, which translates more accurately to "Beautiful Square," and is the country's most famous landmark. Step inside the Saint-Basile-le-Bienheureux (Saint Basil's Cathedral), known for its multi-colored onion domes and vibrant interior frescoes. If you do not mind waiting in line, the Lenine Mausoleum, a stepped pyramid structure, is open to the public free of charge.
Before exploring the 25,000 hectares of the Kremlin, a visit to the Musée historique (State Historical Museum) provides essential context.
To enter the heart of Russian power, head to the Koutafia or Borovitzkaya towers. While the Palace of Congresses, the Arsenal, the Senate, and the Supreme Soviet are closed to the public, you can visit the Cathedral Square. There, you can admire the cathedrals of the Assomption, the Dormition, the Annonciation, and l'Archange-Saint-Michel, along with the Church of the Déposition-de-la-Robe and the two historic bells. Continue to the Palais des facettes, where the simple facade hides an opulent interior. Nearby, the Térems palace, once home to the Tsars, serves as the official residence of the Russian President. The Palais des Armures houses an impressive collection of weaponry and imperial jewels. You can also take in the view from the Ivan-le-Grand bell tower (81 meters / about 250 RUB).
If you have time, wander the neighborhoods of Kitaï Gorod and Chistiye Prudy to see the remnants of old aristocratic mansions.
Do not miss the Bogoroditse-Smolenski monastery, also known as the Novodievitchi convent. This Unesco-listed site is an impressive complex of red brick walls topped by 12 towers.
For a look at the 1950s architectural legacy, the Hilton Leningradskaya and Radison SAS Ukraïna are two of the seven "Stalinist skyscrapers" commissioned by Staline. You can view the latter during a cruise on the Moskova.
Culture, shopping, and city life
Stroll through the colorful streets of Arbat, the city's museum district. It is home to both the Christ-Sauveur cathedral and the Pouchkine Museum of Fine Arts.
If you enjoy ballet or opera, the Bolchoï and its smaller neighbor, the Maly (located on Teatralnaya square), are the standard-bearers for performance.
For window shopping, head to Tverskaya, often called the "Champs-Élysées" of Moscow.
Sit at a terrace on one of the squares favored by Muscovites, such as Pouchkine or Maïakovskaya, to watch the city go by.
The Tretiakov gallery is essential for understanding Russian history, particularly for l'icône de la Trinité by Andreï Roublev. For contemporary art, check out the Winzavod center or the MMOMA.
For shopping, the state department store Goum is a must-visit. The ground floor, known as Gastronom 1, is a food hall where you can find everything for a traditional meal. In winter, the space hosts a giant ice rink. The Detskiy Mir department store is also worth a look, especially for its award-winning Grabli restaurant.
The Zaryadyé park, opened in 2017, features different Russian landscapes. For a more local experience, Gorki park (also known as Kultury park) along the Moskova is a favorite for evening walks. Other options include the vast VDNKh park or the Patriarch's Ponds.
When to go?
June through September is the best time for a visit. If you can handle the cold, winter in the city is picturesque and festive.
How to get there?
Aeroflot operates daily direct flights to Moscow from major French cities. Air France also provides direct service from Paris Charles de Gaule.
Getting around
The Moscow metro is widely considered the most beautiful in the world. Outside of rush hour, it is a pleasure to use.
Moscow is a stunning city!!! It is like no other, everything there is impressive, massive, and rich. Red Square is breathtaking, and the Kremlin is another splendor entirely... Pack some good shoes because it is a very large city and there is a lot to see. In seven days, I was absolutely never bored! Even the subway stations are worth visiting because they are so beautiful, real museums for some of them.